Whenever your vehicle breaks down, your only concern should be getting it running again. When you have no car, you may be stranded. But, you may not need to spend lots of money to solve the problem. You can handle many auto repairs by yourself.
An emergency kit is a must for your car. Your kit should include jumper cables, tire changing tools and maybe some extra gas. You may also want to add some batteries, a flashlight and a few blankets in the event that you break down at night.
Don’t sign anything until you know the total cost of repairs. You want to make sure that you understand each and every charge, and if you do not then you need to clarify and ask questions before any work is done. You probably don’t want to incur extra charges after the car has been repaired.
Keep a record of every car repair. If you have problems later, it may help the mechanic to see these notes. Not maintaining these records will likely mean you have to spend more money because diagnosing the problem will be harder for the mechanic to do.
Remember that getting OEM parts is important. This means that you are getting manufacturer made parts and not replicas. While generic parts may be cheaper, you’ll never know how good the quality is. It may cost you more in the end to use generic parts even though you save money now.
Make a DIY kit to store in the trunk to help you in times of need. Basic tools that should be included are tire changing tools. If you don’t have a jack and lug wrench, get one. Also have a few tools like a socket set, both a regular and Phillips head screwdriver, a crescent wrench and a torque wrench. Avoid purchasing cheap tools. Get sturdy, quality tools that will not break on you.
Wiper Blades
Your wiper blades need TLC. If you see that the wipers aren’t cleaning effectively, a new pair is in your future. Wiper blades should be replaced at a minimum of once per year, or more than that if you reside in a particularly wet climate.
Speak with friends about auto shop recommendations before you pick a shop. You may get some great recommendations from friends and family. That said, check up on who they refer as well. Checking out online customer reviews for a given garage is a must, and it doesn’t take long at all.
You should check the tire pressure when you go to the gas station. Look at the tires and make sure that they there is nothing embedded in them. If you notice any issues, address them immediately. Don’t drive with bad tires on your car.
Take pictures of your car prior to having it serviced. Some shops strip vehicles and resell the newer parts. Because of this, it is advisable to get proof of what you vehicle looked like before it goes to the shop, just in case.
Keep an eye open for a shop that takes off your good tires and puts older ones on. They do this so that they’re able to make money from you being ignorant. Prior to taking your car to the garage, use chalk to mark your tires. If the marks are gone when you get your vehicle back, you have probably been swindled.
An engine flush is not necessarily normal maintenance. This is an expensive service that is unnecessary unless your car has been neglected, such as not receiving regular oil changes.
The manufacturer is the first point of call if your new vehicle is unsafe or not performing as it should. Manufacturers issue recalls for some vehicles that have recurring issues and you can get your manufacturer to consider recalling the vehicle if other people run into the same problem. More often than not, the manufacturer will be able to fix the car for you.
Have your mechanic give you any original parts that are replaced. If he refuses, that may be because no part was ever replaced at all. Ask your mechanic for an explanation if you notice this red flag.
It should now be apparent to you that you don’t necessarily have to spend a fortune to have your car repaired. Sometimes, you can fix your car yourself. Make use of these great tips so that you can get your car in great condition again.
You And Your Car Will Appreciate These Helpful Auto Repair Tips
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